As a result of users growing dependent on internet connectivity, ample network coverage and stable speeds are crucial, anytime and anywhere. In order to meet these rapid changes in demand, HPUE is introduced.

What is HPUE?

HPUE stands for High Power User Equipment. User equipment refers to devices that have a cellular modem enabling users to connect to a cellular network. For instance, mobile phones, tablets, computers, routers, and so on. 

Most user equipment such as mobile phones run at Power Class 3 with standard transmit power of 23 dBm. High power refers to the increase in transmit power. Higher transmit power then means increasing the coverage range and giving users better service for more uplink speed and greater throughput.

How Does It Work?

This technology plays a large role for devices under Band 14. The Band 14 spectrum is the designated connectivity network for first responders. FirstNet MegaRange is a new HPUE solution exclusively available on Band 14.

Because of FirstNet MegaRange, devices under Band 14 see an increase in transmit power from 23 dBm to 31 dBm, at Power Class 1. The additional 8 dBm not only widens the coverage range, but also improves the signal penetration into infrastructures in urban areas. 

The coverage range increases due to the increase of the uplink’s link budget, measured in dB. Each unit increase in link budget results in not only a unit increase in the network’s coverage, but multiples. Through this, HPUE extends the unbreakable connectivity of devices in Band 14.

Check out GetWireless’ explanation on HPUE in this video.

HPUE for First Responders

To recap the first part of this article, HPUE (High Power User Equipment) refers to the capability that allows devices in Band 14 to use higher transmit power in an extended coverage range. One of the primary groups that certainly benefit from HPUE are first responders.

Over the years, first responders have adapted to the change in technology, now relying on internet connectivity for day-to-day activities. For instance, paperwork digitalization, sharing records, GPS tracking, video feed or surveillance, and much more.

For first responders, the extended range gives them assurance that they will still have network coverage in emergency areas away from cell towers. Additionally, it also meets the critical need for stable connectivity used to uplink or upload data in real-time.  

The greater signal strength offered by HPUE also helps first responders in building emergencies. For example, first responders using HPUE capable devices have a better chance at locating radio beacons from trapped civilians in collapsed buildings. 

What’s Next?

On top of assisting first responders, other users also benefit from HPUE. Users with HPUE capable devices can access internet connectivity from an extensive range, with the quickest speeds the network has to offer.

In support of this, Peplink recently teamed up with Assured Wireless to combine our SpeedFusion technologies with their HPUE. With this partnership, both parties are creating a solution that allows first responders to achieve unbreakable connectivity, anytime, anywhere.